Gait Training

Your therapist will first access the way you move and walk through a series of mobility tests designed to identify areas of instability. Testing includes fall risk assessment, quantitative tests and balance and movement quality assessment. Your therapist will also determine if you could benefit from assistive device support such as a wheelchair, scooter, walker, cane or crutches.

Training can help improve posture, balance and walking speed. Our therapists may recommend body weight-supported rehabilitation through the use of a harness system and stair and curb training. We use two types of harness systems at Virginia Ear Nose and Throat in Henrico, Virginia—the Solo Step System and the Pneumatic Harness System. These harness systems use anti-gravity and body-weight training to allow the patient to safely practice walking.

When you feel off-balance, walking is difficult enough—and stepping up and down can be even more of a challenge. Our Total Balance Center is equipped with stair and curb devices to help patients tackle these big shifts in balance in a safe environment. These devices are easy to grip and can be customized to fit the needs of many different patients.

In addition to general training, our therapists can help patients that need assistive device support to choose a device and learn how to use it. Although these devices can ultimately help patients move around better and regain independence, adjusting to a mobility device can be intimidating. Therapists can also help patients practice navigating difficult mobility situations in a safe setting.